01/10/2007  Shatin  Race 4

DONGGUAN VICTORY and DRAGON INN were slow to begin. In the early stages, DOUBLE FANTASY proved difficult to settle. From the wide barrier, in the early stages, VITAL PATROL was taken back. After the 1100 Metres, KING PALM was steadied away from the heels of MULTI-WIN SPIRIT which shifted in abruptly. After the 800 Metres, MULTI-WIN SPIRIT was left racing without cover. After the 400 Metres, DONGGUAN VICTORY was steadied when disappointed for running between DRAGON INN and ARISTOCRACY which shifted in. When questioned regarding his riding approaching the turn at the 800 Metres, G Mossé (DIAMOND FLYER) said he had been instructed to take the horse back to a rearward position and to ensure it had clear running in the Home Straight. He said because of this in the early stages when VITAL PATROL which was racing to his outside had been taken across behind runners, he felt that horse was endeavouring to obtain a position on the fence. He said therefore near the 1000 Metres he allowed VITAL PATROL to go forward of him, he then positioned himself towards the outside of that horse and after the 800 Metres commenced to make ground around its outside. He said after the 600 Metres VITAL PATROL was shifted wider on the track and because of this DIAMOND FLYER was carried wide. G Mossé acknowledged approaching the turn at the 800 Metres there was an opportunity for him to maintain his position on the inside of VITAL PATROL which would have allowed him to improve his position to follow DONGGUAN VICTORY. He said he did not take advantage of this position because having in mind his riding instructions he was concerned he would not be able to find clear running in the Home Straight. Mr A Lee, trainer of DIAMOND FLYER, confirmed the riding instructions and said with the rail in the C+3 position, it is often difficult for horses to find running towards the inside from a rearward position. He said DIAMOND FLYER has had problems with its left front fetlock and because of this he wanted to ensure the horse was able to have clear running and not meet with interference. G Mossé was told his ride on DIAMOND FLYER in the opinion of the Stewards was not one of his better ones and he should at all times avail himself of opportunities to improve his position when circumstances permit. Mr Lee was told his explanation would be reported. MULTI-WIN SPIRIT was sent for an official veterinary inspection. A veterinary inspection of MULTI-WIN SPIRIT after the race did not show any significant findings. DRAGON INN and COP HILL LAD were sent for sampling. After the race, the Veterinary Officer reported SPY KING had sustained a wound to the left hind tendon as a result of being galloped on.